Lucy welcomes Labour’s pledge to tackle the cost of renting

Lucy has welcomed Ed Miliband’s announcement that the next Labour government will introduce sweeping reforms of the private rented housing sector, to help millions of households hit by the cost of renting.

Since she was elected Lucy has been campaigning for a fairer deal for tenants, after figures revealed that the average cost of renting in Manchester has gone up by £369 since 2010.

Labour’s plans include making three year tenancies the standard in the private rented sector, preventing landlords from making excessive rent increases and banning letting agents fees. These measures will give tenants greater security and save them up to £500 when they move properties.

Speaking after the announcement Lucy said:

“Families who are renting in Manchester often tell me how worried they are about the prospect that their rent could jump up by a big amount from one year to the next. They want to be able to settle down, put down roots and have peace of mind.

“While the Tory-led Government refuses to act, a Labour Government will give families the security of a longer tenancy and predictable rents to stop excessive rises so that they can manage tight family finances and plan ahead.

You can read more about Labour’s plan for a fairer deal for tenants and landlords here